ELF. I know the young. Here's my ring—and now to business!
FAIRY. Is it right to play with human destiny?
ELF. We only play with human beings, their destinies we do not control. Soon or late, the boy will go out into the world, and he is better equipped than many who have faced life before him. When his journey is over, we can discuss the subject more at length. Are you ready?
FAIRY. [Going toward post.] Immediately. [Fairy disappears.]
ELF. Then I'll whistle. [Disappears behind the other post.]
[Pehr comes down steps leading from top of tower.]
PEHR. Who's there?
FAIRY. [Appears suddenly, dressed in white.] Your godmother, Pehr. Don't you know me?
PEHR. Ah! you are the one who caught me in your arms that time, when I fell from the tower. What do you want of me to-day?
FAIRY. I want to give you a Christmas gift.